Aris Mougopetros faces trial after drunk driving arrest in Athens

Greek clarinetist Aris Mougopetros was arrested in central Athens on Sunday, August 30, 2026, after a police check revealed he was driving under the influence of alcohol. Breathalyzer tests recorded levels of 0.71 mg/l and 0.63 mg/l, significantly exceeding the legal limit of 0.25 mg/l. As a result, he faced a fine of 1,375 euros and a 250-day driving license suspension.

Mougopetros issued a public apology via social media, stating, “I have truly regretted my mistake,” and clarified that his earlier heated remarks to journalists were directed at specific individuals rather than the media at large.

His court appearance was adjourned to Thursday, September 3. The defense, led by lawyer Lefteris Athanasopoulos, initially requested a postponement to present blood test results to contest the breathalyzer readings, arguing that alcohol consumption had occurred several hours prior to the test. While the court rejected the initial request due to a lack of evidence, a second request for adjournment was granted because the lawyer was on leave and had not yet fully reviewed the case files.